Portret van Georg von Mecklenburg-Strelitz 1808 - 1868

Carl Mayer’s portrait of Georg von Mecklenburg-Strelitz, made around 1816, presents us with an image imbued with the symbols of power and status of the time. Notice the prominent star emblem on his chest. This is not merely decorative, but a potent signifier of honor, order, and allegiance. Such emblems resonate with ancient astral beliefs, where stars symbolized divine guidance and destiny. Think of how similar motifs appear in various cultures throughout history—from the sun discs of ancient Egypt to the star-studded cloaks of Renaissance royalty. Each iteration carries a blend of cultural memory and new symbolic weight. The star, in particular, has undergone countless transformations, representing everything from celestial power to individual aspiration. The image taps into our collective subconscious, evoking feelings of admiration, perhaps even a longing for order and authority, a primal echo of humanity's age-old fascination with celestial bodies and the powers they represent. This is a clear example of how symbols evolve, resurface, and adapt through history.